Delhi Women’s Commission Stalled, PIL Filed in High Court for Immediate Revival

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Bhupendra Singh Chundawat

Delhi Women’s Commission Stalled, PIL Filed in High Court for Immediate Revival

New Delhi: A public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Delhi High Court over the prolonged inactivity of the Delhi Women’s Commission (DWC).

The petition was submitted by Rashtriya Janata Dal member Sudhakar Singh. It alleges that the DWC office has remained non-functional since January 2024, effectively coming to a complete halt.

Since January 2024, no appointment has been made to the post of the commission’s chairperson. The position became vacant after Swati Maliwal was elected to the Rajya Sabha. In addition, there is a shortage of members, and in May 2024, 223 contractual employees were dismissed. As a result, no staff remains, leading to the closure of key units such as the counselling department, rape crisis cell, and complaint redressal mechanisms.

This crucial institution, created to assist women, is currently inactive while crimes against women in Delhi continue to rise.

The petitioner claims that this situation seriously violates women’s fundamental rights. The PIL cites Articles 14, 15(3), and 21 of the Constitution and accuses the Delhi government of negligence. The closure of this constitutional body responsible for women’s safety, dignity, and justice leaves victims without support.

The petition urges the Delhi High Court to order the immediate full restoration of the commission. It demands timely appointments of the chairperson and members, reinstatement of staff, and resumption of complaint resolution services. It also requests court supervision to prevent such lapses in the future.

This case is significant as it concerns women’s rights. The Delhi Women’s Commission used to handle women’s complaints, provide counselling, and offer legal assistance. Its absence has caused considerable difficulties for affected women.

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